RC F automotive reviews thread
04-02-15, 10:35 PM
#1036
Another Australian review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=41&v=3JLvxckkUYw
Written review:
http://www.downshiftaus.com/2015/review-lexus-rc-f/
"Overall I was quite impressed with the RCF (and the RC350) and the common comparison made with this car and the BMW M4 is an unfair one, while they share the same body style, they really are in two different leagues."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=41&v=3JLvxckkUYw
Written review:
http://www.downshiftaus.com/2015/review-lexus-rc-f/
"Overall I was quite impressed with the RCF (and the RC350) and the common comparison made with this car and the BMW M4 is an unfair one, while they share the same body style, they really are in two different leagues."
04-03-15, 06:53 AM
#1038
Lexus Champion
Thread Starter
Round Up: Autobahn Hits 284 KP/H Top Speed; Head to Heads; Reviews
Top Speed Run (176.4 mph)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWzah1a0_SE
http://www.carshowroom.com.au/review...d-first-drive/
2015 Lexus RC F Review and First Drive
by Marc Greig under Review on 13 Feb 2015 05:37:46 PM
0Total comments 45Total photos
-AA000G1HE6
LEXUS 2015 RC F
Price Range$133,500 - $147,500Fuel Consumption10.9L - 10.9L/100km
4.5RATING
PROS
Really does challenge the Euros in every department; the best value; astonishing drive
CONS
Not much really - maybe slowish gear changes when using the eight-speeder manually
Add to Compare Specifications User Reviews
Launching the astonishingly good high-performance RC F coupe, Lexus has again proven the old adage: “If the guys running the motorsport program develop the road car, the result is guaranteed to be spectacular”. For the V8-powered projectile which is the RC F we can thank Lexus International Chief Engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi – the same man who is running the RC F’s motorsport programs in GT3 and the Japanese GT Series.
“The RC F inherits without compromise our policy that F models must be fully capable of running on a (race) circuit as a venue for pursuing driving pleasure freely and safely,” Yaguchi San explained. “But it is also a road car with characteristic Lexus quality and refinement.”
2015 LEXUS RC F
We’d go further to say the stonking Lexus RC F contends with the likes of BMW M4, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG and Audi RS5 to be the best of these mega-desirable and very fast coupes.
Remember this is the same company which brought us the V10 LFA. Only 100 were made but it is quite possibly the best sports car of its type the world has seen.
Lexus RC F Overview
The high-performance halo vehicle of Lexus’ new RC coupe lineup, the RC F has been launched with one model very sharply priced at $133,500. Just around the corner is the even better RC F Carbon version stickered at $147,500 and boasting hard core looks, lighter weight (carbon—fibre roof, bonnet, rear wing and interior trim) plus seats trimmed in Alcantara.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
And the Lexus RC F is no ‘stickers and stripes’ pretender – apart from the tremendous 5.0-litre V8 engine and slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission the RC F runs a wind-tunnel-enhanced aerodynamic body (including a active rear wing), specialized suspension and unique electronic driver aids befitting a car created by the racing team. And that theme continues inside with the usual Lexus opulence meeting racing-inspired sports seats, LFA-inspired instruments and even a unique sports steering wheel.
Like your ‘M’ BMWs and ‘AMG’ Mercs? Then you’ll understand the Lexus RC F.
Lexus RC F Engine
The 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 engine is a development of the similar engine fitted to the IS F sedan. The naturally-aspirated quad-cam is the most powerful V8 produced by Lexus.
Compared to the 2UR-FSE engine in the IS F, the RC F’s engine has a multitude of new components including the intake manifold and throttle body, intake and exhaust valvetrain, electric motor-driven variable valve timing, cylinder head, the Lexus D-4S dual injection system, spark plugs, pistons, conrods, crankshaft, crank main bearing, exhaust manifold and heat insulator, sump and baffle, alternator clutch system and engine and transmission coolers just to name a few. So it has a higher compression ratio (12.3:1), breaths better, is 12 per-cent more powerful, more fuel-efficient and complies with Euro 6 emissions standards.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
That all adds up to 351kW of power at 7100rpm and peak torque of 530Nm from 4800 to 5600rpm. Like the V10 in the Lexus LFA, this V8 has been designed using motorcycle engine technology so torque delivery is rapid and linear. Lexus claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 4.5 seconds.
And the noise is stunning – Active Sound Control delivering a deep tone up to 3000rpm and a high-pitched roar as you move above and up to the 7500rpm redline.
Drive is via that multi-mode eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle-shifters and throttle-blipping downchanges. This too has been redone for the RC F to provide a more linear response to the accelerator pedal.
And there is the world’s first torque vectoring rear differential for a front-engined car. Unlike other torque vectoring differentials which use the brakes to slow wheels, the Lexus system uses precisely controlled electric actuator motors (which operate 1,000times per second) and multi-plate clutches to ensure the appropriate amount of torque is distributed to each rear wheel.
Lexus RC F The Interior
Lexus says the goal for the RC F’s interior designers was to blend its luxury and track-ready personalities. Yep they nailed that one.
Open the door f the RC F and the gorgeous aroma of high-quality leather wafts into your nostrils but staring you in the face is a pair of curvaceous, figure-hugging sports front seats which clearly have backgrounds in motorsport. There’s even an Alcanta top for the centre console box.
Those seats use a motorsport technique in which they are filled with foam in a single process to eliminate shrinkage and slipping. The foam is applied in three sections (shoulder, lumbar and hip) to change shape three-dimensionally to integrate with the lines of the driver and front seat passenger.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The leather-wrapped 370mm diameter steering wheel is unique to the Lexus RC F and plenty of electronic adjustment for rake/reach and electronic seat adjustment provides a perfect driving position. Underneath are gorgeous alloy-trimmed pedals which again are in just the right (sporty) position.
The basic dashboard/instrument layout comes from the rest of the RC range but the gauges are borrowed from the LFA supercar – such as the large central rev-counter and analogue speedometer. to the left is the upright colour screen for the satellite navigation and upscale 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
Two individual seats are fitted in the rear – with high fixed headrests and the same construction methods as the front. But like all high-performance coupes, rear leg-room isn’t massive.
Lexus RC F Exterior & Styling
Compared to the regular RC Coupe, the RC F is 5.0cms wider (wider wheel arches) and 10mm loner (aerodynamics). And of course it sits lower to the road.
Apart from the aero enhancements, immediately obvious is the raised bonnet line (to fit the taller V8 engine) with a heat extracting scoop in the middle. There are also air scoops, cooling ducts and, at the rear, and active wing which deploys at speeds above 80km/h.
Not so obvious is the flat underbody.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The hallmark spindle grille gets a chrome horizontal strip at bumper height which enhances its appearance and behind is a transmission oil cooler.
And there are full-length aero spats along the sides.
Even the rear bumper corners were designed to maximize airflow and actually influence flow over the wing.
Wheels (19-inch or 20-inch) look brilliant and are special lightweight alloys to keep unsprung weight at a minimum.
Lexus RC F On The Road
‘Mount Panorama’ – for Australians those words need no further clarification. This is our Nurburgring, a race circuit where more hearts have been broken than melted.
For your www.carshowroom.com.au correspondent and almost all of our senior colleagues – those of us who have been around longer than the Lexus brand! – incredibly this was the first time we would drive on ‘The Mountain’ in race conditions. The road was closed to the public and no speed limits applied.
2015 LEXUS RC F
Not that it was just an uncontrolled blast. Lexus of course brought some logical thinking and in our first track session we were told to work through the Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) system – from ‘Normal’ to ‘Sport S’ and ‘Sport S+’ modes and finally in the ‘Expert’ setting which – as they say – disables TRC, VSC and pre-collision braking to such an extent it only intervenes when you are actually about to spin.
Lexus ambassador 1980 World F1 Champion Alan Jones and Toyota’s rally ace Neal bates were in attendance to give us some advice. ‘Big Al’ (as 1976 World Champ James Hunt referred to him) told your www.carshwroom.aom.au correspondent: “There’s no substitute for laps up here with all the blind corners and changes in elevation”.
Right so five laps wasn’t really enough to perfect all corners but we’re pleased to say the high-speed McPhillamy Park left-hander was one of the ones we ‘nailed’ on our last circuit and the Lexus RC F responded with a brilliant display – nice and flat, a smidge of oversteer on exit and brilliant feedback all the way through.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
We also did a loop on the road down through Blayney and the combination showed Lexus has managed to provide a suspension calibration with sufficient compliance to reign-in bumps and potholes but also plenty of bite for when the going gets twisty. BMW and Merc – you need to buy one of these and drive it hard.
Lexus RC F Issues
Some imbecile looking to grab some attention will no doubt find something about which to criticize the Lexus RC F. A small boot maybe? Does boot capacity really matter for buyers of these cars?
For us, maybe the manual gear changes with paddle shifters were a smidge slow (but the cog-swapping in full auto was so good and so rapid they were a tad superfluous).
Lexus RC F Verdict
It’s as simple as this: this time around for high-performance driving dynamics there is nothing to separate the Lexus RC F from its German rivals. Oh you can split hairs about a few extra kgs here or there and a race circuit lap time a few tenths slower here or there, but trust us - the seat-of-the-pants-get-the-heart-racing axis has shifted meteorically in favour of Lexus.
What does separate them is price. And the indisputable fact is the Lexus RC F doesn’t just beat the Germans for value-for-money - it smashes them.
2015 LEXUS RC F
Now we’re the first to acknowledge many buyers in this segment aren’t driven primarily by dollars – and they’ll probably always buy a Mercedes-Benz, Audi or BMW. But as a drive and as a proposition, the RC F has just slammed onto the same page.
Yes, it really is that good.
Lexus RC F The Competition
And here’s the problem – three Car Showroom Favourites illustrate how good this segment is.
Opening the batting is the Audi RS5 ($156,400). 331kW/430Nm from Audi’s 4.2-litre V8 driving all four wheels via Quattro and the seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. A tremendous car which we hurtled round a private test track in Northern NSW just before Christmas – and you get the sensational Audi RS interior.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The BMW M4 ($166,900) provided one of the drives of the year in 2014 when we tackled the Hampton Downs race circuit outside Auckland, New Zealand and the terrific roads to Taupo. This time the ‘M’ gets a 317kW/550Nm twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine and trust us, this is one of the world’s best engines. Brilliant dynamics but, now having driven the Lexus RC F, it seems unnecessarily hard and would be difficult to live with as a daily driver.
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG ($159,507) is for us the looker of the crowd (except for the Lexus RC F) and delivers a stupendous 373kW/610Nm from AMG’s 6.2-litre V8. Gorgeous AMG goodies everywhere but, like the M4 now suddenly appearing too firm in suspension tune.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_wTSO4o_Cg
German giant takes on Japanese newcomer in the battle for performance coupe bragging rights.
See video. http://www.drive.com.au/new-car-comp...25-1m5uft.html
http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/10/23/dr...015-lexus-rcf/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWzah1a0_SE
http://www.carshowroom.com.au/review...d-first-drive/
2015 Lexus RC F Review and First Drive
by Marc Greig under Review on 13 Feb 2015 05:37:46 PM
0Total comments 45Total photos
-AA000G1HE6
LEXUS 2015 RC F
Price Range$133,500 - $147,500Fuel Consumption10.9L - 10.9L/100km
4.5RATING
PROS
Really does challenge the Euros in every department; the best value; astonishing drive
CONS
Not much really - maybe slowish gear changes when using the eight-speeder manually
Add to Compare Specifications User Reviews
Launching the astonishingly good high-performance RC F coupe, Lexus has again proven the old adage: “If the guys running the motorsport program develop the road car, the result is guaranteed to be spectacular”. For the V8-powered projectile which is the RC F we can thank Lexus International Chief Engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi – the same man who is running the RC F’s motorsport programs in GT3 and the Japanese GT Series.
“The RC F inherits without compromise our policy that F models must be fully capable of running on a (race) circuit as a venue for pursuing driving pleasure freely and safely,” Yaguchi San explained. “But it is also a road car with characteristic Lexus quality and refinement.”
2015 LEXUS RC F
We’d go further to say the stonking Lexus RC F contends with the likes of BMW M4, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG and Audi RS5 to be the best of these mega-desirable and very fast coupes.
Remember this is the same company which brought us the V10 LFA. Only 100 were made but it is quite possibly the best sports car of its type the world has seen.
Lexus RC F Overview
The high-performance halo vehicle of Lexus’ new RC coupe lineup, the RC F has been launched with one model very sharply priced at $133,500. Just around the corner is the even better RC F Carbon version stickered at $147,500 and boasting hard core looks, lighter weight (carbon—fibre roof, bonnet, rear wing and interior trim) plus seats trimmed in Alcantara.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
And the Lexus RC F is no ‘stickers and stripes’ pretender – apart from the tremendous 5.0-litre V8 engine and slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission the RC F runs a wind-tunnel-enhanced aerodynamic body (including a active rear wing), specialized suspension and unique electronic driver aids befitting a car created by the racing team. And that theme continues inside with the usual Lexus opulence meeting racing-inspired sports seats, LFA-inspired instruments and even a unique sports steering wheel.
Like your ‘M’ BMWs and ‘AMG’ Mercs? Then you’ll understand the Lexus RC F.
Lexus RC F Engine
The 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 engine is a development of the similar engine fitted to the IS F sedan. The naturally-aspirated quad-cam is the most powerful V8 produced by Lexus.
Compared to the 2UR-FSE engine in the IS F, the RC F’s engine has a multitude of new components including the intake manifold and throttle body, intake and exhaust valvetrain, electric motor-driven variable valve timing, cylinder head, the Lexus D-4S dual injection system, spark plugs, pistons, conrods, crankshaft, crank main bearing, exhaust manifold and heat insulator, sump and baffle, alternator clutch system and engine and transmission coolers just to name a few. So it has a higher compression ratio (12.3:1), breaths better, is 12 per-cent more powerful, more fuel-efficient and complies with Euro 6 emissions standards.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
That all adds up to 351kW of power at 7100rpm and peak torque of 530Nm from 4800 to 5600rpm. Like the V10 in the Lexus LFA, this V8 has been designed using motorcycle engine technology so torque delivery is rapid and linear. Lexus claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 4.5 seconds.
And the noise is stunning – Active Sound Control delivering a deep tone up to 3000rpm and a high-pitched roar as you move above and up to the 7500rpm redline.
Drive is via that multi-mode eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle-shifters and throttle-blipping downchanges. This too has been redone for the RC F to provide a more linear response to the accelerator pedal.
And there is the world’s first torque vectoring rear differential for a front-engined car. Unlike other torque vectoring differentials which use the brakes to slow wheels, the Lexus system uses precisely controlled electric actuator motors (which operate 1,000times per second) and multi-plate clutches to ensure the appropriate amount of torque is distributed to each rear wheel.
Lexus RC F The Interior
Lexus says the goal for the RC F’s interior designers was to blend its luxury and track-ready personalities. Yep they nailed that one.
Open the door f the RC F and the gorgeous aroma of high-quality leather wafts into your nostrils but staring you in the face is a pair of curvaceous, figure-hugging sports front seats which clearly have backgrounds in motorsport. There’s even an Alcanta top for the centre console box.
Those seats use a motorsport technique in which they are filled with foam in a single process to eliminate shrinkage and slipping. The foam is applied in three sections (shoulder, lumbar and hip) to change shape three-dimensionally to integrate with the lines of the driver and front seat passenger.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The leather-wrapped 370mm diameter steering wheel is unique to the Lexus RC F and plenty of electronic adjustment for rake/reach and electronic seat adjustment provides a perfect driving position. Underneath are gorgeous alloy-trimmed pedals which again are in just the right (sporty) position.
The basic dashboard/instrument layout comes from the rest of the RC range but the gauges are borrowed from the LFA supercar – such as the large central rev-counter and analogue speedometer. to the left is the upright colour screen for the satellite navigation and upscale 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system.
Two individual seats are fitted in the rear – with high fixed headrests and the same construction methods as the front. But like all high-performance coupes, rear leg-room isn’t massive.
Lexus RC F Exterior & Styling
Compared to the regular RC Coupe, the RC F is 5.0cms wider (wider wheel arches) and 10mm loner (aerodynamics). And of course it sits lower to the road.
Apart from the aero enhancements, immediately obvious is the raised bonnet line (to fit the taller V8 engine) with a heat extracting scoop in the middle. There are also air scoops, cooling ducts and, at the rear, and active wing which deploys at speeds above 80km/h.
Not so obvious is the flat underbody.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The hallmark spindle grille gets a chrome horizontal strip at bumper height which enhances its appearance and behind is a transmission oil cooler.
And there are full-length aero spats along the sides.
Even the rear bumper corners were designed to maximize airflow and actually influence flow over the wing.
Wheels (19-inch or 20-inch) look brilliant and are special lightweight alloys to keep unsprung weight at a minimum.
Lexus RC F On The Road
‘Mount Panorama’ – for Australians those words need no further clarification. This is our Nurburgring, a race circuit where more hearts have been broken than melted.
For your www.carshowroom.com.au correspondent and almost all of our senior colleagues – those of us who have been around longer than the Lexus brand! – incredibly this was the first time we would drive on ‘The Mountain’ in race conditions. The road was closed to the public and no speed limits applied.
2015 LEXUS RC F
Not that it was just an uncontrolled blast. Lexus of course brought some logical thinking and in our first track session we were told to work through the Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM) system – from ‘Normal’ to ‘Sport S’ and ‘Sport S+’ modes and finally in the ‘Expert’ setting which – as they say – disables TRC, VSC and pre-collision braking to such an extent it only intervenes when you are actually about to spin.
Lexus ambassador 1980 World F1 Champion Alan Jones and Toyota’s rally ace Neal bates were in attendance to give us some advice. ‘Big Al’ (as 1976 World Champ James Hunt referred to him) told your www.carshwroom.aom.au correspondent: “There’s no substitute for laps up here with all the blind corners and changes in elevation”.
Right so five laps wasn’t really enough to perfect all corners but we’re pleased to say the high-speed McPhillamy Park left-hander was one of the ones we ‘nailed’ on our last circuit and the Lexus RC F responded with a brilliant display – nice and flat, a smidge of oversteer on exit and brilliant feedback all the way through.
2015 LEXUS RC F
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
We also did a loop on the road down through Blayney and the combination showed Lexus has managed to provide a suspension calibration with sufficient compliance to reign-in bumps and potholes but also plenty of bite for when the going gets twisty. BMW and Merc – you need to buy one of these and drive it hard.
Lexus RC F Issues
Some imbecile looking to grab some attention will no doubt find something about which to criticize the Lexus RC F. A small boot maybe? Does boot capacity really matter for buyers of these cars?
For us, maybe the manual gear changes with paddle shifters were a smidge slow (but the cog-swapping in full auto was so good and so rapid they were a tad superfluous).
Lexus RC F Verdict
It’s as simple as this: this time around for high-performance driving dynamics there is nothing to separate the Lexus RC F from its German rivals. Oh you can split hairs about a few extra kgs here or there and a race circuit lap time a few tenths slower here or there, but trust us - the seat-of-the-pants-get-the-heart-racing axis has shifted meteorically in favour of Lexus.
What does separate them is price. And the indisputable fact is the Lexus RC F doesn’t just beat the Germans for value-for-money - it smashes them.
2015 LEXUS RC F
Now we’re the first to acknowledge many buyers in this segment aren’t driven primarily by dollars – and they’ll probably always buy a Mercedes-Benz, Audi or BMW. But as a drive and as a proposition, the RC F has just slammed onto the same page.
Yes, it really is that good.
Lexus RC F The Competition
And here’s the problem – three Car Showroom Favourites illustrate how good this segment is.
Opening the batting is the Audi RS5 ($156,400). 331kW/430Nm from Audi’s 4.2-litre V8 driving all four wheels via Quattro and the seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. A tremendous car which we hurtled round a private test track in Northern NSW just before Christmas – and you get the sensational Audi RS interior.
2015 LEXUS RC F2015 LEXUS RC F
The BMW M4 ($166,900) provided one of the drives of the year in 2014 when we tackled the Hampton Downs race circuit outside Auckland, New Zealand and the terrific roads to Taupo. This time the ‘M’ gets a 317kW/550Nm twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine and trust us, this is one of the world’s best engines. Brilliant dynamics but, now having driven the Lexus RC F, it seems unnecessarily hard and would be difficult to live with as a daily driver.
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG ($159,507) is for us the looker of the crowd (except for the Lexus RC F) and delivers a stupendous 373kW/610Nm from AMG’s 6.2-litre V8. Gorgeous AMG goodies everywhere but, like the M4 now suddenly appearing too firm in suspension tune.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_wTSO4o_Cg
German giant takes on Japanese newcomer in the battle for performance coupe bragging rights.
See video. http://www.drive.com.au/new-car-comp...25-1m5uft.html
http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/10/23/dr...015-lexus-rcf/
04-03-15, 01:45 PM
#1039
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Join Date: Sep 2014
Location: Indiana
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Top Speed Run (176.4 mph)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWzah1a0_SE
http://www.carshowroom.com.au/review...d-first-drive/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_wTSO4o_Cg
German giant takes on Japanese newcomer in the battle for performance coupe bragging rights.
See video. http://www.drive.com.au/new-car-comp...25-1m5uft.html
http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/10/23/dr...015-lexus-rcf/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWzah1a0_SE
http://www.carshowroom.com.au/review...d-first-drive/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_wTSO4o_Cg
German giant takes on Japanese newcomer in the battle for performance coupe bragging rights.
See video. http://www.drive.com.au/new-car-comp...25-1m5uft.html
http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/10/23/dr...015-lexus-rcf/
Don't have time to watch the vid, or research it, but is that governor ltd to 176 or so? I would think w/ its seemingly low body drag and nearly 500hp that it would push the car higher than that. I mean the C63 stock does way more than that when the limiter is removed.
04-05-15, 01:48 PM
#1040
Lexus Champion
Thread Starter
Governor is limited.
04-05-15, 02:05 PM
#1041
Lexus Champion
Thread Starter
Automotive Addicts - RCF Torsen Reviewed
2015 Lexus RC F Review & Test Drive
posted by Malcolm Hogan
http://www.automotiveaddicts.com/529...iew-test-drive
In our current golden automotive age when forced induction and smaller displacement seem to be a growing and well-perceived force, it is invigorating to see Japanese automaker Lexus building 5-liter V8s for their newest luxury sports coupe, the all-new RC F.
When I first approached the new Lexus RC F for a spin through upstate New York roads and then on the Monticello Motor Club track, my initial impressions were mostly positive and I instantly became a champion for the RC F. After spending a full week with the new Lexus RC F, it is evident of it being a better street car than it is a track conqueror, yet capable in both environments.
2015-lexus-rcf-drive-rear
Some may think I have given into the kool-aide poured by my fellow journalists when few have concluded that the Lexus RC F falls short competing with the BMW M4. To some of them, I say, that may be true in some aspects but in the full scheme of things the Lexus RC F seems more at home on public roads as well as sharp-bending canyons than on competitive tracks. What I am getting at here is, the few shortcomings of the Lexus RC F are mostly reserved to its 3,958 pounds and less-than-eager low rpm power band (389 ft-lbs of torque at 5,600 rpm) coupled with its 8-speed automatic transmission. I would do you a disservice by failing to mention these aspects in a direct contrast of the BMW M4, which is, after all, its direct competition in my mind.
2015-lexus-rcf-v8-engine-cover
The new Lexus RC F, a hodgepodge grouping of current Lexus line-up chassis’, pulls off its own signification in its demeanor for driving character and power output at 467 horsepower from its 5.0-liter V8. The engine is a screamer, something that you can’t find in other dealerships. Mated to an improved 8-speed automatic, one that casts out many quirks found in the outgoing Lexus IS F, is a joy to manually shift by way of the steering wheel mounted paddles. I will say shifting is faster but there are still some delays that I found in normal drive mode. The 8-speed automatic will still take a second to reach its desired gear upon a downshift from 8th gear if it is more than one single gear at a time. This was apparent mostly during 8th to 2nd gearshifts, which is asking a lot of the transmission. This is where I took notice to the odd gearing ratios of the RC F, which seem to be geared more for a 6-speed than one that has an additional two forward cogs. Lexus may have done this more for efficiency as you can still reach just over 70 mph in second gear, hardly the ratio you expect for a unit that has 8 forward gears. First through third gear could have easily been shorter considering how the deep-toned V8 roars its way to its 7,300 rpm redline.
2015-lexus-rcf-front-grill
Of course, that roaring V8 requires decent amounts of premium fuel to the tune of an EPA estimated 16 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined. Those figures are frequently attainable, mostly when you opt for the Eco mode taking away the RPM gauge on the configurable LCD gauge cluster, which takes its sport mode cues from the Lexus LFA supercar.
See Also: 2015 Lexus RC F First Impressions and Test Drive
I wouldn’t take all of what I have said thus far as the end-all to any hopes of the RC F impressing me, or you. Bottom line, the RC F is quite impressive and Lexus has shown that they aren’t afraid of standing out a bit with bold new designs and big V8s, paving a distinctive direction when others play it safe with subtlety. Part of that boldness, outside of its audacious exterior design statement, are traits such as a Sport S plus mode and an Expert stability and traction control mode that allows you to break the rear end loose just enough to perform light drifts and burnouts with the help of its standard Limited Slip Differential. The subtleness also takes a back seat with the motorized spoiler that automatically rises at 52 mph for added downforce out back. Then, you have sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sports wrapping forged 19-inch wheels on hubs featuring slotted rotors and Brembo 6-piston calipers up front and 4-piston rears. Working off of a fresh set of pads, the RC F comes to a stop in about 108 feet from 60 mph. In the other direction, reaching 60 mph, the RC F takes about 4.4 seconds – pretty quick stuff here.
2015-lexus-rcf-wheel
During my week with the new 2015 Lexus RC F I was able to take it to the Cars and Coffee at the Concours show, a yearly event taking place the Saturday before the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. For the second year in a row, we were able to assist the Concours staff in selecting vehicles to put on the lawn for the Cars and Coffee spectacle, and the RC F was one of the 350 vehicles fortunate to grace the field. Parked next to a tastily modified 1997 Toyota Supra 6-speed single Turbo, it was evident of the Toyota/Lexus brand making a turn to its sporty roots as they are visually unmistakable in the RC F. Its aggressive exterior lines and massively proportioned front “spindle” grill signify the new Lexus design character with a bit of flare. With the RC F being the performance variation of the RC 350 V6-powered coupe, it is refreshing to have some of that design trickle down to the RC 350 F Sport, which is a way of getting the visual taste of the RC F but with 306 horsepower and a smaller price tag.
2015-lexus-rcf-1997-toyota-supra
Garnishing the luxury appeal and exceptional sportiness wrapped up in the expected quality package Lexus is known for, is just what you get in the new RC F. The nicely bolstered seats up front with fixed F-embroidered headrests, heating and ventilation, and a decent amount of adjustability, are among the best supportive seats for a luxury sports coupe I have rested my posterior in. The long travel of the front seats assures the proper and comfortable seating positions for people who are well over 6-feet tall, such as myself. The rear seats, quite short on space, are reserved for use by two small children, nothing more.
2015-lexus-rcf-dashboard
The dashboard’s design, following that of the current IS, feature a new trackpad, which I found to be the least desirable part of the interior. The trackpad, a slight improvement over the mouse-like joystick that it replaces, incorporates force-feedback that I found unwelcomed. Fortunately, you can disable the force-feedback by turning it all the way down in the settings menu. After doing so, spending about 15 minutes with the infotainment system became a quick second nature for me. Use of familiar menu sets and icons on the Lexus Enform suite of apps remained user-friendly without any lagging screens.
2015-lexus-rcf-gauge-cluster-sport-s-mode
2015-lexus-rcf-gauge-cluster-sport-s-plus-mode
Lexus continues to impress with their quality and durability. There was nothing about the Lexus RC F that made me think it wouldn’t last well over 100,000 miles before requiring anything outside normal maintenance. The rigid structure and chassis of the RC F helped it communicate the road through the nicely-weighted steering wheel, even more so in Sport and Sport+ modes with better throttle response and the 8-speed automatic transmission keeping the RPMs in the sweet spot.
2015-lexus-rcf-front-seats
Thrashing the RC F through local roads and open highways sung a nice tune from the throaty V8 opening up its intake manifold, mostly overshadowing any exhaust note all the way to its 7,300 rpm redline. Power is smooth and the body remains vibration free. The functional bits of its bodacious body panels, venting hood, and motorized rear spoiler all aided to the RC F’s performance aptitude.
2015-lexus-rcf-rear
I already knew the RC F was perfectly capable on the track with excellent stability and a lively chassis, never backing down from a 160 mph-plus challenge. Now, living with it for a week I can walk away with a definitive placement of where it calls home, and that’s in the hands of someone who wants something different but not to the point of diminishing those expected qualities of a true luxury sports car under the umbrella of exceptional build quality and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
RC-F
My 2015 Lexus RC F test vehicle has a starting MSRP of $62,400 but with the options of 19-inch hand polished 20-spoke forged alloy wheels, leather trimmed seats, the navigation/Mark Levinson Package (5.1 channel surround sound audio w/17-speakers and 835-watts, backup camera, navigation system, remote touchpad controller, voice commend, app suite), Premium Package (heated/ventilated front seats, carbon fiber interior trim, blind spot monitor w/cross traffic alert, intuitive park assist, rain-sensing wipers, auto dimming mirrors w/reverse tilt) and Moonroof, the price came to an as-tested $73,965 including a $925 delivery, processing and handling fee.
posted by Malcolm Hogan
http://www.automotiveaddicts.com/529...iew-test-drive
In our current golden automotive age when forced induction and smaller displacement seem to be a growing and well-perceived force, it is invigorating to see Japanese automaker Lexus building 5-liter V8s for their newest luxury sports coupe, the all-new RC F.
When I first approached the new Lexus RC F for a spin through upstate New York roads and then on the Monticello Motor Club track, my initial impressions were mostly positive and I instantly became a champion for the RC F. After spending a full week with the new Lexus RC F, it is evident of it being a better street car than it is a track conqueror, yet capable in both environments.
2015-lexus-rcf-drive-rear
Some may think I have given into the kool-aide poured by my fellow journalists when few have concluded that the Lexus RC F falls short competing with the BMW M4. To some of them, I say, that may be true in some aspects but in the full scheme of things the Lexus RC F seems more at home on public roads as well as sharp-bending canyons than on competitive tracks. What I am getting at here is, the few shortcomings of the Lexus RC F are mostly reserved to its 3,958 pounds and less-than-eager low rpm power band (389 ft-lbs of torque at 5,600 rpm) coupled with its 8-speed automatic transmission. I would do you a disservice by failing to mention these aspects in a direct contrast of the BMW M4, which is, after all, its direct competition in my mind.
2015-lexus-rcf-v8-engine-cover
The new Lexus RC F, a hodgepodge grouping of current Lexus line-up chassis’, pulls off its own signification in its demeanor for driving character and power output at 467 horsepower from its 5.0-liter V8. The engine is a screamer, something that you can’t find in other dealerships. Mated to an improved 8-speed automatic, one that casts out many quirks found in the outgoing Lexus IS F, is a joy to manually shift by way of the steering wheel mounted paddles. I will say shifting is faster but there are still some delays that I found in normal drive mode. The 8-speed automatic will still take a second to reach its desired gear upon a downshift from 8th gear if it is more than one single gear at a time. This was apparent mostly during 8th to 2nd gearshifts, which is asking a lot of the transmission. This is where I took notice to the odd gearing ratios of the RC F, which seem to be geared more for a 6-speed than one that has an additional two forward cogs. Lexus may have done this more for efficiency as you can still reach just over 70 mph in second gear, hardly the ratio you expect for a unit that has 8 forward gears. First through third gear could have easily been shorter considering how the deep-toned V8 roars its way to its 7,300 rpm redline.
2015-lexus-rcf-front-grill
Of course, that roaring V8 requires decent amounts of premium fuel to the tune of an EPA estimated 16 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined. Those figures are frequently attainable, mostly when you opt for the Eco mode taking away the RPM gauge on the configurable LCD gauge cluster, which takes its sport mode cues from the Lexus LFA supercar.
See Also: 2015 Lexus RC F First Impressions and Test Drive
I wouldn’t take all of what I have said thus far as the end-all to any hopes of the RC F impressing me, or you. Bottom line, the RC F is quite impressive and Lexus has shown that they aren’t afraid of standing out a bit with bold new designs and big V8s, paving a distinctive direction when others play it safe with subtlety. Part of that boldness, outside of its audacious exterior design statement, are traits such as a Sport S plus mode and an Expert stability and traction control mode that allows you to break the rear end loose just enough to perform light drifts and burnouts with the help of its standard Limited Slip Differential. The subtleness also takes a back seat with the motorized spoiler that automatically rises at 52 mph for added downforce out back. Then, you have sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sports wrapping forged 19-inch wheels on hubs featuring slotted rotors and Brembo 6-piston calipers up front and 4-piston rears. Working off of a fresh set of pads, the RC F comes to a stop in about 108 feet from 60 mph. In the other direction, reaching 60 mph, the RC F takes about 4.4 seconds – pretty quick stuff here.
2015-lexus-rcf-wheel
During my week with the new 2015 Lexus RC F I was able to take it to the Cars and Coffee at the Concours show, a yearly event taking place the Saturday before the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. For the second year in a row, we were able to assist the Concours staff in selecting vehicles to put on the lawn for the Cars and Coffee spectacle, and the RC F was one of the 350 vehicles fortunate to grace the field. Parked next to a tastily modified 1997 Toyota Supra 6-speed single Turbo, it was evident of the Toyota/Lexus brand making a turn to its sporty roots as they are visually unmistakable in the RC F. Its aggressive exterior lines and massively proportioned front “spindle” grill signify the new Lexus design character with a bit of flare. With the RC F being the performance variation of the RC 350 V6-powered coupe, it is refreshing to have some of that design trickle down to the RC 350 F Sport, which is a way of getting the visual taste of the RC F but with 306 horsepower and a smaller price tag.
2015-lexus-rcf-1997-toyota-supra
Garnishing the luxury appeal and exceptional sportiness wrapped up in the expected quality package Lexus is known for, is just what you get in the new RC F. The nicely bolstered seats up front with fixed F-embroidered headrests, heating and ventilation, and a decent amount of adjustability, are among the best supportive seats for a luxury sports coupe I have rested my posterior in. The long travel of the front seats assures the proper and comfortable seating positions for people who are well over 6-feet tall, such as myself. The rear seats, quite short on space, are reserved for use by two small children, nothing more.
2015-lexus-rcf-dashboard
The dashboard’s design, following that of the current IS, feature a new trackpad, which I found to be the least desirable part of the interior. The trackpad, a slight improvement over the mouse-like joystick that it replaces, incorporates force-feedback that I found unwelcomed. Fortunately, you can disable the force-feedback by turning it all the way down in the settings menu. After doing so, spending about 15 minutes with the infotainment system became a quick second nature for me. Use of familiar menu sets and icons on the Lexus Enform suite of apps remained user-friendly without any lagging screens.
2015-lexus-rcf-gauge-cluster-sport-s-mode
2015-lexus-rcf-gauge-cluster-sport-s-plus-mode
Lexus continues to impress with their quality and durability. There was nothing about the Lexus RC F that made me think it wouldn’t last well over 100,000 miles before requiring anything outside normal maintenance. The rigid structure and chassis of the RC F helped it communicate the road through the nicely-weighted steering wheel, even more so in Sport and Sport+ modes with better throttle response and the 8-speed automatic transmission keeping the RPMs in the sweet spot.
2015-lexus-rcf-front-seats
Thrashing the RC F through local roads and open highways sung a nice tune from the throaty V8 opening up its intake manifold, mostly overshadowing any exhaust note all the way to its 7,300 rpm redline. Power is smooth and the body remains vibration free. The functional bits of its bodacious body panels, venting hood, and motorized rear spoiler all aided to the RC F’s performance aptitude.
2015-lexus-rcf-rear
I already knew the RC F was perfectly capable on the track with excellent stability and a lively chassis, never backing down from a 160 mph-plus challenge. Now, living with it for a week I can walk away with a definitive placement of where it calls home, and that’s in the hands of someone who wants something different but not to the point of diminishing those expected qualities of a true luxury sports car under the umbrella of exceptional build quality and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
RC-F
My 2015 Lexus RC F test vehicle has a starting MSRP of $62,400 but with the options of 19-inch hand polished 20-spoke forged alloy wheels, leather trimmed seats, the navigation/Mark Levinson Package (5.1 channel surround sound audio w/17-speakers and 835-watts, backup camera, navigation system, remote touchpad controller, voice commend, app suite), Premium Package (heated/ventilated front seats, carbon fiber interior trim, blind spot monitor w/cross traffic alert, intuitive park assist, rain-sensing wipers, auto dimming mirrors w/reverse tilt) and Moonroof, the price came to an as-tested $73,965 including a $925 delivery, processing and handling fee.
04-06-15, 12:52 PM
#1042
Lexus Champion
Thread Starter
US News: 2015 Lexus RC Line Ranks 1 out of 13
http://www.torquenews.com/1083/us-ne...cale-small-car
US News names 2015 Lexus RC #1 Upscale Small Car
Setting aside that the 2015 Lexus RC 350 and RCF are not small cars, Lexus RC fans will agree with the overall sentiment.
When the current generation Lexus IS 350 came to market a couple years ago, most critics and reviewers expected it to be a low-volume car bested by BMW’s 3-Series. Then two top automotive magazines picked the Lexus IS 350 as the best of its class. Oh, and sales have about doubled, pushing it to the number two sales spot in the segment. Now it is déjà vu all again, with a respected automotive publication choosing the new Lexus RC sports coupe over BMW and Audi.
For those not following US News Automotive section, it is now an on-line only publication. It is also rather unique in that its team of professional journalists use other outlets’ reports to come up with winners and rankings. This most recent ranking by US News put the all-new 2015 Lexus RC 350 and RCF ahead of other “upscale” vehicles in its price range. Nobody that has driven the new RC will be surprised, but those owners of German sporty cars might be.
Speaking of the 2015 Lexus RC coupe US News said, “…2015 Lexus RC has a good balance of luxury and performance. Standout features include excellent handling, a smooth ride and a high-quality interior.” Commenting on the RCF, US News said, “The high-performance Lexus RC F comes with a V8 engine that automotive journalists say has outstanding power, as well as tight steering and agile handling.” About the interior of the RC US News said, “Critics think the 2015 Lexus RC has a stylish interior made of top-quality materials. They find that the RC 350 has comfortable front seats, but cramped back seats, as well as a small trunk for the class.”
The US News story also linked to three other major publications that had good opinions of the new 2015 RC coupe.
Main story Image courtesy of Paul Dergarabedian, Facebook Lexus RC Club member and contributor. Smaller images from Patrick Rall's recent test of the RC 350 F Sport
Lexus RC Performance
Scorecard
Overall: 9.1
Critics' Rating: 9.0
Performance: 8.3
Interior: 7.9
Safety: 10.0
Reliability: 5_0 JD Power
How we calculate scores
Research analyzed for this review
Pros & Cons
Agile handling
Comfortable, quiet ride
Cramped back seat
Small trunk
Notable for 2015
All-new model
Test drivers say the 2015 Lexus RC 350 is an athletic performer, with a strong V6 and nimble handling. They add that the RC 350 maintains a smooth, comfortable ride typical of a Lexus.
"Like all coupes, the RC 350 is at the sportier end of the car spectrum, but the F SPORT version of the RC 350 is even more sporty." -- AutoTrader
"How's it drive? Smoothly, quietly and suited to a broad range of tastes, but always tracking a Lexus trend that puts less emphasis on a serene, coddled driving experience and more on athleticism or sharp response." -- AutoWeek
"The RC 350 offers a satisfying and sporty ride." -- Kelley Blue Book
"Edgy, fun, fast... Lexus. I'll just let that sink in for a moment." -- Autoblog
Acceleration and Power
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 306 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic comes with the all-wheel drive RC 350. According to the EPA, the base 2015 Lexus RC 350 gets 19/28 mpg city/highway, which is low for the class.
The high-performance 2015 Lexus RC F is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that generates 467 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Automotive journalists report that the RC 350’s V6 is powerful, but that the car doesn’t really sprint off the line, and that rivals like BMW have six-cylinder engines with more vigor. Auto writers think the RC 350’s eight-speed automatic transmission shifts accurately, while the six-speed automatic is not as smooth. Critics think the RC F’s V8 is an incredibly powerful engine, with an enticing engine note.
"The RC F's 5.0L V8 is nothing short of sensational, offering arguably the best intake noise in the business to go along with its head-snapping power." -- Left Lane News
"Power delivery from the 3.5-liter V6 is certainly strong enough, but the car doesn't catapult off the line when the throttle is mashed; rather, it moves off in a somewhat ‘gentlemanly’ manner, then builds speed as revs rise, with a noticeable surge as the engine passes its 4800-rpm torque peak and approaches its 6400-rpm horsepower peak." -- Consumer Guide
"The RC 350's 306-horsepower V6 offers plenty of gusto and transmits a surprisingly satisfying exhaust note. RWD models enjoy a smooth 8-speed transmission, while AWD variants use an older and slightly rougher 6-speed auto (the Lexus RC does not offer a manual transmission)." -- Kelley Blue Book
"There is no flat spot in the V-6's power delivery, but the engine lacks character when compared with the inline-sixes available at the BMW shop." -- Car and Driver
Handling and Braking
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is available. Auto writers note that the RC 350 has terrific handling and responsive steering, especially around tight corners at speed. Reviewers also report that the RC 350 rides well over uneven pavement, retaining its smooth-driving Lexus identity. Critics praise the high-performance Lexus RC F model, saying it has stable, firm handling, even when the car is attacking corners, and that it has precise steering.
"Steering offers some light levels of communication, but with excellent stability and more rapid response than you might anticipate from a two-ton coupe. The car transitioned from corner to corner with a lot of grace and grip, allowing me to really deploy all that power in a confident manner." -- Autoblog
"All of that said, this car is engaging to drive hard, with good body control and a well-damped suspension. Even with variable-ratio steering-a $1900 option exclusive to rear-drive F Sports-the feel and feedback available to the driver are near the top of the class." -- Car and Driver
"While there was no rough pavement to be found on the route (as there most certainly would be around our Chicagoland office), Lexus seems to have kept in mind that this is, after all, a Lexus, as nothing traveled over caused much of a disturbance. Corners brought on little in the way of lean, and the steering was quick to respond to inputs." -- Consumer Guide
"Right away, the stiffness of the new chassis is noticeable, feeling impressively solid and tight even when loaded across corners, like when you're navigating onto a road from a steep driveway. … The damping is firm but not crashy or jiggling, nor does the RC 350's ride go to pieces over cracked pavement. This a spry and pointy chassis that's pretty much foolproof, and it will tackle corners with little body roll and sharp, accurate steering." -- Edmunds (F Sport)
Lexus RC Review
Notable for 2015
All-new model
The 2015 Lexus RC ranks 1 out of 13 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Lexus RC, as well as reliability and safety data.
Automotive journalists report that the 2015 Lexus RC has a good balance of luxury and performance. Standout features include excellent handling, a smooth ride and a high-quality interior.
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 has a V6 engine that reviewers think delivers strong power, but doesn’t feel as quick off the line as some rivals. Rear-wheel drive comes standard and all-wheel drive is available. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic comes with all-wheel drive models. Critics say the eight-speed automatic shifts seamlessly, while the six-speed isn’t quite as smooth. According to the EPA, the base Lexus RC 350 gets 19/28 mpg city/highway, which is below average for the class. Auto writers report that the RC 350 has excellent handling, with responsive steering and tight grip through corners at speed. They also note that the RC 350 has a comfortable ride, in keeping with Lexus tradition. The high-performance Lexus RC F comes with a V8 engine that automotive journalists say has outstanding power, as well as tight steering and agile handling.
Critics think the 2015 Lexus RC has a stylish interior made of top-quality materials. They find that the RC 350 has comfortable front seats, but cramped back seats, as well as a small trunk for the class. The RC 350 comes standard with two USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a 10-speaker audio system with a 7-inch display screen, a rearview camera, satellite radio, voice recognition and Siri Eyes Free. Available features include a moonroof, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers, navigation, Lexus’ Enform smartphone app integration and an infotainment system with a remote touchpad controller. Auto writers say the RC 350’s infotainment system is easy to understand, but that the touchpad is difficult to use without looking away from the road, and that the screen is embedded too far back in the center stack, making it tough to see at times.
"An all-new model that's derived from other Lexus models, the 2015 Lexus RC 350 coupe is a mix of the new and the familiar. Its striking cabin and rear-wheel-drive dynamics makes for a well-rounded package that isn't afraid to stand out in a crowd." -- Edmunds
"The RC 350 successfully pulls off a combination of comfort and composure." -- AutoTrader
“If you've been pining for a luxury sports coupe with aggressive design and the upscale amenities and enviable history of reliability that come with every Lexus, the RC might just be the mid-$40,000 coupe you've been awaiting." -- Kelley Blue Book
"The base RC 350 offers the pizazz of a coupe with enough luxury to merit the label." -- AutoWeek
2015 Lexus RC Angular Front Photo 2015 Lexus RC Angular Rear Photo 2015 Lexus RC Side View Photo 2015 Lexus RC Front View Photo
US News names 2015 Lexus RC #1 Upscale Small Car
Setting aside that the 2015 Lexus RC 350 and RCF are not small cars, Lexus RC fans will agree with the overall sentiment.
When the current generation Lexus IS 350 came to market a couple years ago, most critics and reviewers expected it to be a low-volume car bested by BMW’s 3-Series. Then two top automotive magazines picked the Lexus IS 350 as the best of its class. Oh, and sales have about doubled, pushing it to the number two sales spot in the segment. Now it is déjà vu all again, with a respected automotive publication choosing the new Lexus RC sports coupe over BMW and Audi.
For those not following US News Automotive section, it is now an on-line only publication. It is also rather unique in that its team of professional journalists use other outlets’ reports to come up with winners and rankings. This most recent ranking by US News put the all-new 2015 Lexus RC 350 and RCF ahead of other “upscale” vehicles in its price range. Nobody that has driven the new RC will be surprised, but those owners of German sporty cars might be.
Speaking of the 2015 Lexus RC coupe US News said, “…2015 Lexus RC has a good balance of luxury and performance. Standout features include excellent handling, a smooth ride and a high-quality interior.” Commenting on the RCF, US News said, “The high-performance Lexus RC F comes with a V8 engine that automotive journalists say has outstanding power, as well as tight steering and agile handling.” About the interior of the RC US News said, “Critics think the 2015 Lexus RC has a stylish interior made of top-quality materials. They find that the RC 350 has comfortable front seats, but cramped back seats, as well as a small trunk for the class.”
The US News story also linked to three other major publications that had good opinions of the new 2015 RC coupe.
Main story Image courtesy of Paul Dergarabedian, Facebook Lexus RC Club member and contributor. Smaller images from Patrick Rall's recent test of the RC 350 F Sport
Lexus RC Performance
Scorecard
Overall: 9.1
Critics' Rating: 9.0
Performance: 8.3
Interior: 7.9
Safety: 10.0
Reliability: 5_0 JD Power
How we calculate scores
Research analyzed for this review
Pros & Cons
Agile handling
Comfortable, quiet ride
Cramped back seat
Small trunk
Notable for 2015
All-new model
Test drivers say the 2015 Lexus RC 350 is an athletic performer, with a strong V6 and nimble handling. They add that the RC 350 maintains a smooth, comfortable ride typical of a Lexus.
"Like all coupes, the RC 350 is at the sportier end of the car spectrum, but the F SPORT version of the RC 350 is even more sporty." -- AutoTrader
"How's it drive? Smoothly, quietly and suited to a broad range of tastes, but always tracking a Lexus trend that puts less emphasis on a serene, coddled driving experience and more on athleticism or sharp response." -- AutoWeek
"The RC 350 offers a satisfying and sporty ride." -- Kelley Blue Book
"Edgy, fun, fast... Lexus. I'll just let that sink in for a moment." -- Autoblog
Acceleration and Power
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 306 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic comes with the all-wheel drive RC 350. According to the EPA, the base 2015 Lexus RC 350 gets 19/28 mpg city/highway, which is low for the class.
The high-performance 2015 Lexus RC F is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that generates 467 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque. It comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Automotive journalists report that the RC 350’s V6 is powerful, but that the car doesn’t really sprint off the line, and that rivals like BMW have six-cylinder engines with more vigor. Auto writers think the RC 350’s eight-speed automatic transmission shifts accurately, while the six-speed automatic is not as smooth. Critics think the RC F’s V8 is an incredibly powerful engine, with an enticing engine note.
"The RC F's 5.0L V8 is nothing short of sensational, offering arguably the best intake noise in the business to go along with its head-snapping power." -- Left Lane News
"Power delivery from the 3.5-liter V6 is certainly strong enough, but the car doesn't catapult off the line when the throttle is mashed; rather, it moves off in a somewhat ‘gentlemanly’ manner, then builds speed as revs rise, with a noticeable surge as the engine passes its 4800-rpm torque peak and approaches its 6400-rpm horsepower peak." -- Consumer Guide
"The RC 350's 306-horsepower V6 offers plenty of gusto and transmits a surprisingly satisfying exhaust note. RWD models enjoy a smooth 8-speed transmission, while AWD variants use an older and slightly rougher 6-speed auto (the Lexus RC does not offer a manual transmission)." -- Kelley Blue Book
"There is no flat spot in the V-6's power delivery, but the engine lacks character when compared with the inline-sixes available at the BMW shop." -- Car and Driver
Handling and Braking
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 comes standard with rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is available. Auto writers note that the RC 350 has terrific handling and responsive steering, especially around tight corners at speed. Reviewers also report that the RC 350 rides well over uneven pavement, retaining its smooth-driving Lexus identity. Critics praise the high-performance Lexus RC F model, saying it has stable, firm handling, even when the car is attacking corners, and that it has precise steering.
"Steering offers some light levels of communication, but with excellent stability and more rapid response than you might anticipate from a two-ton coupe. The car transitioned from corner to corner with a lot of grace and grip, allowing me to really deploy all that power in a confident manner." -- Autoblog
"All of that said, this car is engaging to drive hard, with good body control and a well-damped suspension. Even with variable-ratio steering-a $1900 option exclusive to rear-drive F Sports-the feel and feedback available to the driver are near the top of the class." -- Car and Driver
"While there was no rough pavement to be found on the route (as there most certainly would be around our Chicagoland office), Lexus seems to have kept in mind that this is, after all, a Lexus, as nothing traveled over caused much of a disturbance. Corners brought on little in the way of lean, and the steering was quick to respond to inputs." -- Consumer Guide
"Right away, the stiffness of the new chassis is noticeable, feeling impressively solid and tight even when loaded across corners, like when you're navigating onto a road from a steep driveway. … The damping is firm but not crashy or jiggling, nor does the RC 350's ride go to pieces over cracked pavement. This a spry and pointy chassis that's pretty much foolproof, and it will tackle corners with little body roll and sharp, accurate steering." -- Edmunds (F Sport)
Lexus RC Review
Notable for 2015
All-new model
The 2015 Lexus RC ranks 1 out of 13 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Lexus RC, as well as reliability and safety data.
Automotive journalists report that the 2015 Lexus RC has a good balance of luxury and performance. Standout features include excellent handling, a smooth ride and a high-quality interior.
The 2015 Lexus RC 350 has a V6 engine that reviewers think delivers strong power, but doesn’t feel as quick off the line as some rivals. Rear-wheel drive comes standard and all-wheel drive is available. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic comes with all-wheel drive models. Critics say the eight-speed automatic shifts seamlessly, while the six-speed isn’t quite as smooth. According to the EPA, the base Lexus RC 350 gets 19/28 mpg city/highway, which is below average for the class. Auto writers report that the RC 350 has excellent handling, with responsive steering and tight grip through corners at speed. They also note that the RC 350 has a comfortable ride, in keeping with Lexus tradition. The high-performance Lexus RC F comes with a V8 engine that automotive journalists say has outstanding power, as well as tight steering and agile handling.
Critics think the 2015 Lexus RC has a stylish interior made of top-quality materials. They find that the RC 350 has comfortable front seats, but cramped back seats, as well as a small trunk for the class. The RC 350 comes standard with two USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a 10-speaker audio system with a 7-inch display screen, a rearview camera, satellite radio, voice recognition and Siri Eyes Free. Available features include a moonroof, a Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers, navigation, Lexus’ Enform smartphone app integration and an infotainment system with a remote touchpad controller. Auto writers say the RC 350’s infotainment system is easy to understand, but that the touchpad is difficult to use without looking away from the road, and that the screen is embedded too far back in the center stack, making it tough to see at times.
"An all-new model that's derived from other Lexus models, the 2015 Lexus RC 350 coupe is a mix of the new and the familiar. Its striking cabin and rear-wheel-drive dynamics makes for a well-rounded package that isn't afraid to stand out in a crowd." -- Edmunds
"The RC 350 successfully pulls off a combination of comfort and composure." -- AutoTrader
“If you've been pining for a luxury sports coupe with aggressive design and the upscale amenities and enviable history of reliability that come with every Lexus, the RC might just be the mid-$40,000 coupe you've been awaiting." -- Kelley Blue Book
"The base RC 350 offers the pizazz of a coupe with enough luxury to merit the label." -- AutoWeek
2015 Lexus RC Angular Front Photo 2015 Lexus RC Angular Rear Photo 2015 Lexus RC Side View Photo 2015 Lexus RC Front View Photo
04-11-15, 12:43 PM
#1045
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BMW M4 vs Lexus RC F: fight!
http://www.topgear.com/uk/photos/lex...est-2015-04-10
http://www.topgear.com/uk/photos/lex...est-2015-04-10
RC F or M4? We put the cars the Merc C63 has to beat to the test. Tyres may be shredded…
A simple straight-line test is not the correct way to judge which is the better car here. I know that. But it is a lot of fun. And quite revealing. So the Lexus RC F lined up alongside the BMW M4, modes were fiddled with, traction settings chosen and when both drivers were happy, they set off.
And the BMW won. By a country mile. By the time the M4 reached 100mph, just 8.8secs after it set off, the Lexus was already getting on for two seconds adrift. Later, we did other metric stuff, and we found out that the BMW is much faster around a circuit, can pull more g and stop harder. To many people, this must mean it's a better car.
But is speed alone the thrill? Do the extra g-forces the BMW driver experienced make the M4 that much more exciting than the slightly slower RC F? Of course not, even if it often seems that Nürburgring lap times are what is pushing car development. It's easy to measure these metrics, easy to absorb the nuggets of information they supply, easy to assume they're all that matters.
I know, they all claim that the move to turbocharging is about emissions, but behind that facade, I reckon there's a bunch of marketing engineers rubbing their hands at the prospect of easily liberated horsepower. So it's impossible to buy a naturally aspirated BMW M car any more, and with the arrival of the new C63, all AMGs are now forced-induction, too. No doubt the Merc does the numbers as effectively as the Beemer, too. Mercedes'll have done some measuring and made sure of that.
Yet Lexus, embracers of all things ecological, has managed to stick with a naturally aspirated V8. Albeit a relatively slow one. Japan must be too far away to feel the pressure of European competition. So does the Lexus, developed in isolation far away, and - let's face it - aimed at a more American audience, make up for its lack of outright speed with a dazzling chassis that makes you whoop with joy at the scent of a Dunsfold corner? Er, no.
It may have a lovely big V8, but Dunsfold isn't its natural habitat. The Lexus weighs a quarter of a tonne too much and feels baggy after the BMW, carrying a quarter-turn of understeer through the Follow Through. It has a TVD (Torque Vectoring Differential) system with an Expert mode that's meant to permit drifting, but when I tried it, it only permitted me to spin.
The RC F seemed permanently confused by Dunsfold. Even trailing the brakes into Second to Last failed to cure the understeer or improve the chassis balance - this is a big, thick, heavy car that isn't nearly as adjustable as it should be. It did do good skids, though. Expert mode may have been a dead loss, but if you fully disabled it and gave the back end the berries in a slow corner, the car would arc wide and sit there happily, puffy clouds billowing from the arches, while the astonishing steering lock - normally only considered a boon for parking - allowed the RC F to be rescued from oblique angles. That was fun. Apart from that, it was slow and didn't stop or grip that well. Not only mathematically this time. The inert brakes soon went from feeling meaty to feeling spongy, and the tyres struggled with all that weight.
Don't feel too sorry for it yet, because there are upsides to the Lexus that we'll come on to. Before we do, we need to discuss the BMW. Yes, at Dunsfold it trounced the Lexus in a straight line and went everywhere with more speed, determination and control. But, above all, it was sharper. The nose went where it was told, when it was told, and provided you didn't get carried away, the rear tyres would push it very effectively onwards.
But if you did get carried away, even only slightly, the BMW developed what we'll call a "traction issue". In short, it struggles to get its power down. A prod too far and, if you didn't have your wits about you, the M4 would no longer be facing the exit of the corner, but the entrance. In fact, sharp might not be quite the right word to describe the M4 on track - spiky and edgy are equally valid. In Sport Plus mode, the throttle response is savage, clever engine management keeping the turbo spinning so you don't get caught off-boost. It kicks very hard, is tricky to drive smoothly and easy to get wrong.
It's as if BMW were worried that the M4 would be perceived as a bit of a softie with the adoption of turbos, so decided to equip it with a scorpion's tail - jabby and poisonous. Of course, this also means it's a laugh on track, rarely pointing straight, and you can, of course, back all the settings off, and the BMW actually becomes more manageable.
However, on this evidence, the bald numbers seem to be proof of a better car. But the question is this: how much does track driving matter to you over and above road driving? You may do a couple of track days a year, but the other 363 days are all about road driving. And out there, it's a different matter. The BMW still has traction issues, and here they're less amusing. It can't get out of a junction without an orange light flashing. And the engine noise is rather forced, the double-clutch gearbox jerks the shifts unnecessarily and, bar some extra carbon, the cabin is that of a standard 3-Series. And why don't the top bars of the wing mirrors join up to the door?
It just feels a bit over-processed, too much garnish, a hint of pantomime. Ultimately, there's a suspicion that the M4 is acting the part of an M4, rather than actually being an M4.
Don't get me wrong: it's still good, but it seems slightly out of kilter, doesn't have the integrity or purity of purpose that made older M3s so enthralling. The engine is central to this - the M4 is missing the rasping yowl of a clean-breathing straight-six barrelling its way to 8,000rpm.
And a bombastic engine is one thing the Lexus does have in its favour. The Lexus V8 is all heart and soul and effort, it responds well, is a genuine pleasure to fire up in the mornings, is so honeyed on its way to the 7,000rpm limiter that it seems as if it could rev to 8, 9, 10,000rpm, even. It's deeply satisfying. And so's the rest of the car. The cabin is more coupe-ish than the M4's, with an interesting terraced dash (although the infotainment is hopeless), it's well planted with good traction and stability, more refined and relaxed, vigorous rather than vicious. I liked it on the road: it was burly, honest, endearing and surprisingly dextrous. Better than the BMW. Which, given the 363:2 road/track ratio, must make it the winner, right?
So nearly. If it'd been 300kg lighter, I think we'd have a different verdict here. The BMW wins, but it's a victory hollowed by the M4's strange imbalance - it's not as well rounded as it ought to be. Too much focus on the numbers, perhaps
A simple straight-line test is not the correct way to judge which is the better car here. I know that. But it is a lot of fun. And quite revealing. So the Lexus RC F lined up alongside the BMW M4, modes were fiddled with, traction settings chosen and when both drivers were happy, they set off.
And the BMW won. By a country mile. By the time the M4 reached 100mph, just 8.8secs after it set off, the Lexus was already getting on for two seconds adrift. Later, we did other metric stuff, and we found out that the BMW is much faster around a circuit, can pull more g and stop harder. To many people, this must mean it's a better car.
But is speed alone the thrill? Do the extra g-forces the BMW driver experienced make the M4 that much more exciting than the slightly slower RC F? Of course not, even if it often seems that Nürburgring lap times are what is pushing car development. It's easy to measure these metrics, easy to absorb the nuggets of information they supply, easy to assume they're all that matters.
I know, they all claim that the move to turbocharging is about emissions, but behind that facade, I reckon there's a bunch of marketing engineers rubbing their hands at the prospect of easily liberated horsepower. So it's impossible to buy a naturally aspirated BMW M car any more, and with the arrival of the new C63, all AMGs are now forced-induction, too. No doubt the Merc does the numbers as effectively as the Beemer, too. Mercedes'll have done some measuring and made sure of that.
Yet Lexus, embracers of all things ecological, has managed to stick with a naturally aspirated V8. Albeit a relatively slow one. Japan must be too far away to feel the pressure of European competition. So does the Lexus, developed in isolation far away, and - let's face it - aimed at a more American audience, make up for its lack of outright speed with a dazzling chassis that makes you whoop with joy at the scent of a Dunsfold corner? Er, no.
It may have a lovely big V8, but Dunsfold isn't its natural habitat. The Lexus weighs a quarter of a tonne too much and feels baggy after the BMW, carrying a quarter-turn of understeer through the Follow Through. It has a TVD (Torque Vectoring Differential) system with an Expert mode that's meant to permit drifting, but when I tried it, it only permitted me to spin.
The RC F seemed permanently confused by Dunsfold. Even trailing the brakes into Second to Last failed to cure the understeer or improve the chassis balance - this is a big, thick, heavy car that isn't nearly as adjustable as it should be. It did do good skids, though. Expert mode may have been a dead loss, but if you fully disabled it and gave the back end the berries in a slow corner, the car would arc wide and sit there happily, puffy clouds billowing from the arches, while the astonishing steering lock - normally only considered a boon for parking - allowed the RC F to be rescued from oblique angles. That was fun. Apart from that, it was slow and didn't stop or grip that well. Not only mathematically this time. The inert brakes soon went from feeling meaty to feeling spongy, and the tyres struggled with all that weight.
Don't feel too sorry for it yet, because there are upsides to the Lexus that we'll come on to. Before we do, we need to discuss the BMW. Yes, at Dunsfold it trounced the Lexus in a straight line and went everywhere with more speed, determination and control. But, above all, it was sharper. The nose went where it was told, when it was told, and provided you didn't get carried away, the rear tyres would push it very effectively onwards.
But if you did get carried away, even only slightly, the BMW developed what we'll call a "traction issue". In short, it struggles to get its power down. A prod too far and, if you didn't have your wits about you, the M4 would no longer be facing the exit of the corner, but the entrance. In fact, sharp might not be quite the right word to describe the M4 on track - spiky and edgy are equally valid. In Sport Plus mode, the throttle response is savage, clever engine management keeping the turbo spinning so you don't get caught off-boost. It kicks very hard, is tricky to drive smoothly and easy to get wrong.
It's as if BMW were worried that the M4 would be perceived as a bit of a softie with the adoption of turbos, so decided to equip it with a scorpion's tail - jabby and poisonous. Of course, this also means it's a laugh on track, rarely pointing straight, and you can, of course, back all the settings off, and the BMW actually becomes more manageable.
However, on this evidence, the bald numbers seem to be proof of a better car. But the question is this: how much does track driving matter to you over and above road driving? You may do a couple of track days a year, but the other 363 days are all about road driving. And out there, it's a different matter. The BMW still has traction issues, and here they're less amusing. It can't get out of a junction without an orange light flashing. And the engine noise is rather forced, the double-clutch gearbox jerks the shifts unnecessarily and, bar some extra carbon, the cabin is that of a standard 3-Series. And why don't the top bars of the wing mirrors join up to the door?
It just feels a bit over-processed, too much garnish, a hint of pantomime. Ultimately, there's a suspicion that the M4 is acting the part of an M4, rather than actually being an M4.
Don't get me wrong: it's still good, but it seems slightly out of kilter, doesn't have the integrity or purity of purpose that made older M3s so enthralling. The engine is central to this - the M4 is missing the rasping yowl of a clean-breathing straight-six barrelling its way to 8,000rpm.
And a bombastic engine is one thing the Lexus does have in its favour. The Lexus V8 is all heart and soul and effort, it responds well, is a genuine pleasure to fire up in the mornings, is so honeyed on its way to the 7,000rpm limiter that it seems as if it could rev to 8, 9, 10,000rpm, even. It's deeply satisfying. And so's the rest of the car. The cabin is more coupe-ish than the M4's, with an interesting terraced dash (although the infotainment is hopeless), it's well planted with good traction and stability, more refined and relaxed, vigorous rather than vicious. I liked it on the road: it was burly, honest, endearing and surprisingly dextrous. Better than the BMW. Which, given the 363:2 road/track ratio, must make it the winner, right?
So nearly. If it'd been 300kg lighter, I think we'd have a different verdict here. The BMW wins, but it's a victory hollowed by the M4's strange imbalance - it's not as well rounded as it ought to be. Too much focus on the numbers, perhaps
04-13-15, 11:36 AM
#1047
Driver School Candidate
04-13-15, 12:19 PM
#1048
"nostradimas to Chris Harris
4/13/15 1:50pm
“Why don’t we judge a GT-car’s success by seeing what kind of results we can get out of it on the track?” - Said nobody in the market for such a car, and nobody in a Lexus dealership in the first place.
The difference between the RC-F and the M4 is that your doctor isn’t dumb enough to buy the M4 after its lease is up, while the RC-F will age like fine wine with minimal upkeep in his/her circular driveway. A lot of the people shopping for cars in this price range aren’t absurdly rich, but are comfortable, and most likely still have to work for their money. The last thing you want is a fuel pump failure putting your M4 in limp mode on your way to a double bypass heart surgery. The Lexus is a more conservative choice that will most likely hold its value well, won’t be a headache to own, and will be 85% of the pleasure to drive for someone who doesn’t really know how to drive technically. It also probably has better road manners.
Me though? I’m under 30. I can’t afford this car, but if I could, I... Would get an FR-S, a supercharger kit, a used Suburban to haul the FR-S to the track, and use the rest for track fees, brakes, and tires. Which is a super Jalop thing to do. Which is why the most Jalop auto writer is having trouble understanding this car, and that’s why you’re all back-lashing it.
Oh, and that IS-F that isn’t as good as an E92 M3 or an RS4? Yeah, everyone that owns one loves it, even 6 years after purchase."
04-13-15, 12:37 PM
#1049
he seems to argue about straight up numbers with no other metric. Well if thats the case then why buy a BMW or Lexus for straight up numbers. Way better choices out there. $40k Mustang GT Performance Package ran the Head 2 Head test with similar lap times of the M4 and RCF...at half the price. Camaro 1LE did it even faster.
04-13-15, 01:54 PM
#1050
Love this comment left for that piece:
"nostradimas to Chris Harris
4/13/15 1:50pm
“Why don’t we judge a GT-car’s success by seeing what kind of results we can get out of it on the track?” - Said nobody in the market for such a car, and nobody in a Lexus dealership in the first place.
The difference between the RC-F and the M4 is that your doctor isn’t dumb enough to buy the M4 after its lease is up, while the RC-F will age like fine wine with minimal upkeep in his/her circular driveway. A lot of the people shopping for cars in this price range aren’t absurdly rich, but are comfortable, and most likely still have to work for their money. The last thing you want is a fuel pump failure putting your M4 in limp mode on your way to a double bypass heart surgery. The Lexus is a more conservative choice that will most likely hold its value well, won’t be a headache to own, and will be 85% of the pleasure to drive for someone who doesn’t really know how to drive technically. It also probably has better road manners.
Me though? I’m under 30. I can’t afford this car, but if I could, I... Would get an FR-S, a supercharger kit, a used Suburban to haul the FR-S to the track, and use the rest for track fees, brakes, and tires. Which is a super Jalop thing to do. Which is why the most Jalop auto writer is having trouble understanding this car, and that’s why you’re all back-lashing it.
Oh, and that IS-F that isn’t as good as an E92 M3 or an RS4? Yeah, everyone that owns one loves it, even 6 years after purchase."
"nostradimas to Chris Harris
4/13/15 1:50pm
“Why don’t we judge a GT-car’s success by seeing what kind of results we can get out of it on the track?” - Said nobody in the market for such a car, and nobody in a Lexus dealership in the first place.
The difference between the RC-F and the M4 is that your doctor isn’t dumb enough to buy the M4 after its lease is up, while the RC-F will age like fine wine with minimal upkeep in his/her circular driveway. A lot of the people shopping for cars in this price range aren’t absurdly rich, but are comfortable, and most likely still have to work for their money. The last thing you want is a fuel pump failure putting your M4 in limp mode on your way to a double bypass heart surgery. The Lexus is a more conservative choice that will most likely hold its value well, won’t be a headache to own, and will be 85% of the pleasure to drive for someone who doesn’t really know how to drive technically. It also probably has better road manners.
Me though? I’m under 30. I can’t afford this car, but if I could, I... Would get an FR-S, a supercharger kit, a used Suburban to haul the FR-S to the track, and use the rest for track fees, brakes, and tires. Which is a super Jalop thing to do. Which is why the most Jalop auto writer is having trouble understanding this car, and that’s why you’re all back-lashing it.
Oh, and that IS-F that isn’t as good as an E92 M3 or an RS4? Yeah, everyone that owns one loves it, even 6 years after purchase."
yup, it does sound to me that this under-30-yr-old doesn't know very well how it works, or at least he doesn't have good idea how much chris' doctor makes. majority of people in this segment they don't care about keeping cars for long. i am not saying all and there are people who get these cars and drive for long time, but most don't.
isf isn't a bad car at all, but until 2012 or later? i think m3 was better
just saying that this perspective on certain things are quite off. some people with m3/4, the cost for the car is just their admission tickets to upcoming track times